The topic of describing a favorite film is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a common subject in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal preferences, express opinions, and use descriptive language effectively.

Describe a movie you want to watch again is a closely related topic that often comes up in IELTS Speaking tests. Being prepared to discuss films you enjoy can help you perform well in various speaking scenarios.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about films and your viewing habits. Here are some typical questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy watching movies?
2. How often do you go to the cinema?
3. What types of films do you prefer?
4. Do you have a favorite actor or actress?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you enjoy watching movies?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about cinema. I find that films are not just entertaining but also a great way to gain insights into different cultures and perspectives. I particularly appreciate how movies can transport you to another world for a couple of hours, allowing you to experience a range of emotions. It’s a form of art that I find truly captivating.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a favorite film:

Describe A Favorite Film You Have Watched Many Times
You should say:

• What the film is
• When you first watched it
• What the film is about
• And explain why you have watched it many times

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about ‘The Shawshank Redemption’, a film that I’ve watched countless times and still find utterly captivating. I first saw this masterpiece when I was in high school, about ten years ago, and it left an indelible impression on me.

The film is based on a Stephen King novella and tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sent to Shawshank State Penitentiary. Over two decades, we follow Andy’s journey as he forms friendships, maintains hope, and ultimately engineers an ingenious escape.

What draws me back to this film time and time again is its profound exploration of the human spirit. The themes of hope, friendship, and perseverance in the face of injustice are beautifully woven throughout the narrative. The stellar performances by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman bring the characters to life in a way that feels authentic and deeply moving.

Moreover, the film’s cinematography is breathtaking, with each frame meticulously crafted to enhance the storytelling. The haunting score by Thomas Newman perfectly complements the emotional journey of the characters.

Every time I watch it, I notice new details and nuances that I missed before. It’s a film that rewards multiple viewings, as there are so many layers to unpack. The dialogue is rich with quotable lines that have become cultural touchstones.

In essence, ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ is more than just a favorite film for me; it’s a source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of hope and human resilience. Its timeless message and impeccable craftsmanship make it a film I’ll continue to revisit for years to come.”

The Shawshank Redemption movie poster

Follow-up questions:

Examiner: Has your opinion of this film changed over time?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Interestingly, my appreciation for ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ has only deepened over time. As I’ve gained more life experience, I’ve found that I relate to different aspects of the story in new ways. For instance, the themes of institutional corruption and the importance of maintaining one’s integrity in difficult circumstances resonate more strongly with me now. I also find that I have a greater appreciation for the technical aspects of the filmmaking, such as the masterful pacing and the subtle foreshadowing throughout the narrative. So, while my opinion hasn’t changed in terms of how much I enjoy the film, it has certainly evolved and become more nuanced.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think the film industry has changed in recent years?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“The film industry has undergone significant transformations in recent years. One of the most notable changes is the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, which have revolutionized how we consume movies. These platforms have not only changed distribution methods but have also influenced content creation, often producing their own films and series.

Another major shift has been the increasing use of CGI and other advanced technologies in filmmaking. This has expanded the possibilities for visual storytelling, especially in genres like science fiction and fantasy.

Moreover, there’s been a growing emphasis on diversity and representation both on screen and behind the camera. This has led to a broader range of stories being told from diverse perspectives.

Lastly, the global pandemic has accelerated some changes in the industry, such as the simultaneous release of films in theaters and on streaming platforms. It’s still uncertain how this will affect the future of cinema, but it’s clear that the industry is constantly evolving to adapt to new technologies and audience preferences.”

Describe a book or movie that is your favorite is another topic that allows you to showcase your ability to discuss personal preferences and analyze media content in depth.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The film industry has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer behaviors. One of the most profound transformations has been the rise of streaming platforms, which have disrupted traditional distribution models and blurred the lines between cinema and television content.

These platforms have not only changed how we consume media but have also democratized content creation to some extent. They’ve provided a platform for independent filmmakers and niche genres that might have struggled to find an audience through traditional channels.

Another significant development has been the rapid advancement of visual effects technology. This has not only enhanced the spectacle of blockbuster films but has also made high-quality visual effects more accessible to lower-budget productions, leveling the playing field to some degree.

There’s also been a growing consciousness about representation and diversity in the industry. This has led to more inclusive storytelling and a concerted effort to amplify voices that have historically been marginalized in Hollywood.

The global pandemic has acted as a catalyst for change, accelerating trends that were already in motion. The simultaneous release model, where films debut in theaters and on streaming platforms on the same day, has challenged traditional release windows and may have long-lasting implications for the industry.

Furthermore, there’s been an increased emphasis on franchises and intellectual property, with studios focusing on building cinematic universes to create long-term engagement with audiences.

All these changes have culminated in a more complex and dynamic film industry, one that’s constantly adapting to new technologies, audience preferences, and global events. It’s an exciting time for cinema, with both challenges and opportunities shaping the future of filmmaking.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Captivating (adj.) /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ – fascinating or attractive
   Example: The film’s captivating storyline kept me engaged throughout.

2. Indelible impression (phrase) – a lasting effect or influence
   Example: The movie’s powerful message left an indelible impression on viewers.

3. Nuance (n.) /ˈnjuːɑːns/ – a subtle difference in meaning or opinion
   Example: The actor’s performance was full of nuance, revealing the character’s complex emotions.

4. Cinematography (n.) /ˌsɪnəməˈtɒɡrəfi/ – the art of making motion pictures
   Example: The film’s stunning cinematography brought the landscape to life.

5. Profound (adj.) /prəˈfaʊnd/ – very great or intense
   Example: The movie offered a profound exploration of human nature.

6. Resonate (v.) /ˈrezəneɪt/ – to evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief
   Example: The themes of friendship and loyalty in the film resonated strongly with audiences.

Describe an online service that you use frequently is another topic where you can apply these vocabulary items and structures to discuss digital platforms for watching movies.

IELTS Speaking vocabulary for discussing films

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing your favorite film:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary: Incorporate film-specific terms and descriptive language to showcase your lexical resource.

2. Provide detailed responses: Elaborate on your answers, giving specific examples and personal insights.

3. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking about films to improve your ability to discuss the topic smoothly and confidently.

4. Show critical thinking: Don’t just describe the plot; analyze themes, cinematography, and the film’s impact on you and society.

5. Use complex sentence structures: Vary your sentence patterns to demonstrate grammatical range and accuracy.

6. Express opinions clearly: Use phrases like “In my view,” “I believe,” and “It seems to me” to articulate your thoughts effectively.

7. Make connections: Relate the film to broader topics like culture, society, or personal experiences to show depth of thought.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can improve your ability to discuss films eloquently in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to engage with the topic thoughtfully and express yourself clearly and confidently.

Describe a film that made you laugh a lot is another potential topic where you can apply these strategies to discuss a movie from a different perspective.